Buying Food in London

When you move to London, one of the first questions to resolve is "Where can I get groceries?". Most expats end up spending time and money trying to figure out where the best place is to go. Well here is some information (based on my opinions and experiences) that will hopefully save you  a bit of that initial heartache:

Major Food Chains:

ASDA - think Walmart (particularly as its owned by them) - cheap food in every respect.

Tesco -  Biggest supermarket chain in the U.K., prices are pretty low although the choice on healthy food is inconsistent amongst the stores.

Sainsbury's - 2nd largest, sometimes better on healthy food than Tesco.

Waitrose - Good choice, strive for good ethics in their business practices (sustainable fish, etc), More expensive than Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencers.

Marks & Spencers - connected with their clothes shops usually.  Better quality than ASDA, Tesco, Sainsbury's, slightly cheaper than Waitrose, try for good ethical business practices (charge for plastic bags).

Tesco's and Sainsbury's have 'Metro' versions spotting the city.  Little versions so to speak of their big stores where you can pop in and get food for your lunch, etc. You'll see them everywhere.  

Other Food Stores:

These are high(er) end stores where you can find food:

Sainsbury's food hall - have an American section, pricy but great quality and choice.

Fortum & Mason - speciality high price food.
 
Whole Foods/Fresh & Wild - scattered around the city - a bit pricy sometimes but excellent stuff.  The store in Kensington High Street is addictive.  Try the food court on the top floor.

Farmers Markets:

Cheaper Ways to Eat:

Look at this link for more information on finding a farmers market where you'll be moving to. The Markets in London are divine, local and a great day out. Definitely go to Borough Market as its the best and one of the oldest. Borough Market is a great place to learn about food too as they have every vegetable that you can imagine. 

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